Pelvic girdle pain (PGP) is common during pregnancy, affecting up to one in five expectant mothers. This discomfort is often diagnosed as Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction (SPD), which can be intense and limit mobility. Many individuals wonder if this physical strain could trigger labor prematurely. Medical understanding establishes a clear distinction between musculoskeletal pain and the physiological processes that initiate early delivery. This article details the nature of SPD, the medical consensus on its effect on labor timing, and the actual risk factors for premature birth.
Understanding Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction
Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction is a specific type of pelvic girdle pain centered on the pubic symphysis joint, which connects the two halves of the pelvis at the front. This joint is normally stabilized by strong ligaments, but during pregnancy, the hormone relaxin is released. Relaxin causes pelvic ligaments to soften and stretch, leading to excessive movement or instability in the pubic symphysis joint.
This instability often causes symptoms during the second or third trimester as the growing baby increases pressure on the pelvis. Symptoms are typically a sharp, shooting pain directly over the pubic bone, sometimes described as a wrenching sensation. The pain frequently radiates to the lower back, groin, perineum, or down the inner thighs.
Simple weight-bearing activities become difficult and painful due to this joint instability. Affected individuals often have trouble walking, climbing stairs, or performing asymmetrical movements like getting in and out of a car. In severe cases, instability may cause a clicking or grinding sound, leading to a noticeable waddling or shuffling gait.
The Medical Consensus on SPD and Preterm Labour
Despite the severity of the pain, current medical research indicates that Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction does not increase the risk of preterm labor or delivery. SPD is classified as a mechanical or musculoskeletal issue originating from the joints and ligaments of the pelvis. This localized pain does not engage the hormonal or uterine mechanisms necessary to initiate premature contractions.
The discomfort from SPD is considered separate from the obstetric risks that lead to early delivery. The underlying causes of SPD—hormonal softening of ligaments and mechanical strain—are not linked to conditions that trigger the start of labor. Medical providers confirm that this musculoskeletal pain will not harm the baby or affect the timing of birth.
The pain typically resolves after delivery once pregnancy hormones subside and pelvic ligaments stabilize. Since SPD is not a physiological trigger for labor, management focuses entirely on the mother’s comfort and function. This allows healthcare providers to treat the condition effectively without concern for altering the pregnancy timeline.
Strategies for Managing SPD Pain
Effective management of Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction focuses on stabilizing the joint and modifying daily activities to reduce mechanical strain. Physical therapy is a recommended non-pharmacological treatment, concentrating on strengthening the pelvic floor, deep abdominal, and gluteal muscles. Strengthening this core support system provides a more stable foundation for the pelvic joint.
Movement modifications keep the body symmetrical, minimizing shearing forces on the pubic symphysis. This involves keeping the knees together when rolling over in bed, getting in and out of a car, and avoiding standing on one leg for dressing. Using a pillow between the knees while sleeping helps maintain pelvic alignment and reduce night-time discomfort.
External support, such as a maternity support belt or a sacroiliac (SI) belt, provides compression and stability to the pelvic girdle. Applying a cold pack to the pubic area following activities that aggravate the pain helps reduce inflammation. These strategies improve quality of life and mobility throughout the pregnancy.
Established Risk Factors for Premature Birth
Since Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction is not a cause of early labor, it is important to understand the actual factors that increase the risk of premature birth, defined as delivery before 37 weeks of gestation. One of the strongest predictors is a previous history of preterm birth, which significantly raises the risk in subsequent pregnancies. Carrying multiples, such as twins or triplets, is also a risk factor.
Several factors can initiate early labor by triggering hormonal changes or uterine inflammation. These include:
- Infections, such as urinary tract infections or bacterial vaginosis.
- Chronic conditions, including high blood pressure or diabetes.
- Problems with reproductive anatomy, such as a short cervical length.
- Age under 17 or over 35, or pregnancies resulting from in vitro fertilization.
- Lifestyle choices, including smoking, alcohol use, and a lack of prenatal care.
Understanding these risks allows for targeted medical monitoring and intervention to promote a full-term pregnancy.